Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteYes—with a caveat. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet look clearer and run more smoothly on Nintendo Switch 2 after the free version 4.0.0 update. Independent reports describe a substantial improvement, but the update does not make the games a visual remaster or guarantee a locked 60 frames per second.
What changes on Switch 2?
Nintendo’s version 4.0.0 update, released June 2, 2025, improves the games’ visuals and frame rate when played on Switch 2. Nintendo describes the visuals as “optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs for improved image quality” and says the “frame rate” is “improved for smoother movement.” Nintendo’s update notes do not specify a resolution or promise a particular frame rate.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 System | $499.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 System with Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 Bundle | $568.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle with Bonus HDMI Cable & Screen Cleaning Cloth | $619.00 | Buy on Amazon |
In practical terms, the same open-world game feels less choppy and looks sharper than it does on the original Switch. Those gains improve the experience, but they do not change the underlying game or remove its visual limitations.
How much smoother does it run?
Independent coverage soon after the update supports a meaningful performance improvement, while stopping short of a universal frame-rate claim. GameSpot’s June 24, 2025 review reported no slowdowns or significant frame-rate dips during the reviewer’s time with the games, but cautioned, “Don’t expect a buttery 60 frames per second.” That is an individual review observation, not a guarantee for every area or play session. GameSpot’s update review
#1 Best Overall
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
Nintendo Life’s June 19, 2025 coverage of Digital Foundry’s technical review reported around 60 fps much of the time. Its June 6 side-by-side comparison also described clearer, higher-resolution graphics and a better frame rate. Taken together, these reports support a strong overall improvement, not a fixed 60 fps specification. Neither establishes performance in every location or play mode. Nintendo Life’s Digital Foundry coverage · Nintendo Life’s side-by-side comparison
Original Switch and Switch 2 compared
| What you notice | Original Switch | Switch 2 with version 4.0.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Image clarity | Baseline presentation of the Switch games. | Nintendo says visuals are optimized for the Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs; independent side-by-side coverage reports a clearer image. |
| Movement and frame rate | Baseline performance of the Switch games. | Nintendo says the frame rate is improved. Reviewers describe substantially smoother play, but not a locked 60 fps. |
| Exact resolution and performance in every scene | Not specified in the cited official update notes. | Not established by the cited reports as a comprehensive, per-mode guarantee. |
Do you need to buy the games again?
No. Nintendo’s US listing describes version 4.0.0 as a free update for Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet, not a separately sold Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack. If you already own either game, you do not need to repurchase it to get the described improvements. Nintendo’s Pokémon Violet listing · Nintendo’s Pokémon Scarlet listing
Rank #2
- The next evolution of the Nintendo Switch system
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Supports up to 4K resolution** when using a compatible game and TV connected via the included Nintendo Switch 2 dock
- Nintendo Switch 2 plays compatible physical and digital Nintendo Switch games.***
Nintendo lists the game file size as 9.9 GB for Nintendo Switch and 10.1 GB for Nintendo Switch 2. These are the figures on Nintendo’s US product listing, accessed October 8, 2026. Nintendo Support says save data remains available after downloading the update. Nintendo’s update notes
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What you need to play online
The update’s described visual and performance improvements do not require a Nintendo Switch Online membership. Nintendo says a membership is required for online features; offline play does not require one. Nintendo Support
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- 【Ultimate Nintendo Switch 2 Bundle – Ready to Play】Includes the complete Nintendo Switch 2 console and a full-game download of Mario Kart World, so you can start racing right out of the box. Perfect for gamers of all ages and playstyles.
- 【Next-Gen Hybrid Gaming with Stunning Visuals】Experience a vivid 7.9‑inch 1080p LCD touchscreen with HDR support, and enjoy 4K TV output at up to 60 fps when docked — for immersive gameplay at home or on the go.
- 【Versatile 3 Play Modes】Seamlessly switch between Handheld, Tabletop, and TV modes — all featuring intuitive controls and smooth performance, wherever you choose to play.
- 【Enhanced Social Gaming with GameChat & Multiplayer】Connect with friends locally, enjoy online multiplayer with up to 24 players, and use voice chat via GameChat (internet connection and Nintendo Switch Online membership required after trial period).
- 【Powerful Storage & Joy‑Con 2 Controllers】Includes 256 GB internal storage (expandable with microSD), magnetic Joy‑Con 2 controllers, docking station, HDMI cable, AC adapter, grip, and straps — everything you need for the ultimate gaming setup.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
